Suryakumar Yadav to Lead Indian T20 Squad Against Sri Lanka; Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Available for ODIs
New Delhi, [Current Date] – In a significant development ahead of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed captain of the Indian T20 team, while Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have confirmed their availability for the subsequent ODI series.
Suryakumar Yadav, known for his explosive batting prowess, will lead the T20 side with Shubman Gill appointed as vice-captain for both T20s and ODIs. The tour marks the beginning of Gautam Gambhir’s tenure as head coach, bringing new dynamics to the team’s leadership and strategy.
Riyan Parag, in stellar form with seven half-centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and promising Delhi fast bowler Harshit Rana are the fresh faces included in the ODI squad. However, seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who retired from T20Is after the World Cup, did not make the ODI cut.
Key players like Jasprit Bumrah have been rested for the T20 series, aligning with the team management’s strategy to manage workload and provide opportunities to emerging talent.
The T20 series will commence with the first match on July 27 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, followed by matches on July 28 and 30. Meanwhile, the ODIs are scheduled for August 2, 4, and 7 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
Suryakumar Yadav’s appointment as T20 captain over Hardik Pandya, who remains a pivotal member of the squad, reflects a strategic decision aimed at long-term team leadership. Pandya has opted out of the ODIs due to personal reasons.
“Suryakumar has shown exceptional leadership qualities previously, and we believe he is the right choice for this series,” commented chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
The ODI squad sees the return of Shreyas Iyer, who impressed as captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL under Gambhir’s mentorship. KL Rahul, recognized for his dual role as a wicketkeeper-batsman, also makes a comeback after his notable performance during the 50-over World Cup.
Gambhir takes charge from Rahul Dravid, concluding his successful tenure with India’s recent World Cup triumph. The focus now shifts towards preparing for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka.
